Lionel Richie Advises Carrie Underwood on 'American Idol'

Lionel Richie has expressed his enthusiasm for Carrie Underwood's upcoming role as a judge on "American Idol," taking over Katy Perry's seat. Speaking at a special event for the Grammy Museum, Richie emphasized the uniqueness of each judge, stating, "Everyone is different than Katy," and highlighted Underwood's distinct qualities. He encouraged her to connect with contestants, saying, "I want Carrie to come in and find her person out there." Underwood, who won the fourth season of "American Idol" in 2005, is seen by Richie as an ideal addition to the judging panel. He remarked, "Her addition to this show is going to be amazing," noting her deep roots in the competition. Richie, alongside Underwood and fellow judge Luke Bryan, is gearing up for the new season, with auditions set to commence on August 12. Richie praised Underwood's experience, stating, "She knows exactly what this navigation is all about," and expressed confidence in her ability to mentor contestants throughout the competition. He believes her journey from contestant to judge will resonate with participants, enhancing their experience on the show. In addition to discussing Underwood's new role, Richie shared his excitement about the Emmy nomination for his documentary, "The Greatest Night in Pop." The film chronicles the creation of the iconic song "We Are the World," showcasing the collaboration of legendary artists, including himself and Michael Jackson, in a pre-digital era. Richie expressed his joy in revealing the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to this historic musical moment.